How To Take Care Of Your Pet This Summer

If you have a pet, you know how much love, care, and attention he needs year-round. However, during the summertime, your pet requires even more attention and care to ensure he remains healthy and safe. To ensure this happens with the increased humidity levels and temperatures, here are a few things to keep in mind over the summer.

Hydration

Some people do not realize it, but animals sweat. Due to the increased temperatures, your pet is going to start sweating more. To ensure that your pet does not suffer from heatstroke and dehydration, it is important that he has access to plenty of fresh, clean water throughout the entire day. If you notice that your pet is having trouble breathing, excessively sweating, or exhibiting any other signs of abnormal behavior, get him to a veterinarian or animal hospital immediately.

Indoor Time

While it is a lot of fun to play outside during the summer with your pet, it is also important that you realize both you and your pet need to head indoors every once in a while to take a break from the heat and UV rays. This will ensure that your pet remains rested. Ideally, the best time of day to remain indoors—or at the very least in the shade—is between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., as this is the time of day when the UV rays from the sun are at their strongest.

Avoid Sunburn

One way to ensure that your pet does not suffer a sunburn is to remain indoors or in the shade when outside. However, another way to avoid a sunburn is to apply a pet sunscreen that has been approved by your veterinarian. If you notice that your pet has cracked or dry skin, then he may have a sunburn. Just like with humans, sunburn can worsen skin conditions that your pet already suffers from and can also lead to skin cancer. If your pet does have a sunburn, you can help him heal by applying some aloe vera gel or a vet-recommended topical cream.

Don't Leave Your Pet in the Vehicle

During the summer, the inside of a vehicle can reach dangerous temperatures. Even if you leave a window cracked, you are placing your pet in serious and potentially life-threatening danger if you leave him in the vehicle. It only takes minutes for your pet to suffer a heatstroke and die.

The aforementioned tips will help you and your pet enjoy a fun, safe, and healthy summer together. In the event that you become worried about your pet this summer or any other time of year, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.


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